Ahead of the pre-orders for Samsung Electronics' "Galaxy Z8 series," the Korea Communications Commission (KCC) issued a special caution on July 27, expressing concern over potential consumer damage caused by exaggerated advertisements promising excessive subsidies and free gifts from some mobile phone retailers.

The Galaxy Z8 series will undergo pre-orders from July 28 to August 3, followed by its official release on August 7.

The KCC stated that some retailers might induce pre-orders by promising excessive subsidies or gifts, only to fail to deliver them after the devices are activated.

The commission emphasized that consumers should verify the information of the advertising retailers and sellers, and ensure that the conditions for receiving subsidies and gifts are explicitly stated in the contract.

It added that, in accordance with the Korea Association for ICT Promotion (KAIT) retailer registration system, it is also necessary to check the prior approval certificate and the seller's ID when visiting a retail store.

Consumers must receive and keep a copy of their contract, and starting in September, mobile communication service contracts will also include information regarding the activating retailer, the agency explained.

The KCC advised that if consumers suffer damages such as unpaid subsidies or failure to receive a contract, they can report it through the Korea Communications Users Protection Association (KCUP) user participation reporting system.

"Rather than hastily entering into a contract based solely on subsidy information, consumers should carefully check the conditions specified in the contract," KCC Chairman Kim Jong-chul said. "If you suspect damage from exaggerated or false advertisements, please report it immediately."
 
(Photo: Yonhap News)